AARP Fraud Prevention Month Brings Free Events to Vermont

AARP Fraud Prevention Month Brings Free Events & Resources to Vermont

Fraud continues to threaten families across the country — and here in Vermont, the impact is real.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers in Vermont reported $8.1 million in fraud losses between January and September 2025, with the most common scams being imposter, online shopping, and internet service scams. However, many fraud cases go unreported, meaning the actual amount stolen could be much higher.

In response, AARP is taking action every April during Fraud Prevention Month, bringing free in-person and virtual events, workshops, and fraud-prevention resources directly to communities across Vermont. 

AARP ADVOCACY: PROTECTING CONSUMERS FROM CRYPTO KIOSK FRAUD

In addition to in-person and virtual events, AARP is advocating for policy solutions to protect consumers from crypto kiosk fraud — one of the fastest-growing scam tactics in the country.

Criminals increasingly direct victims to cryptocurrency kiosks (sometimes called Bitcoin ATMs), where money can be transferred quickly and is often difficult to recover.

AARP is addressing this issue from multiple angles:

• Empowering people with information about crypto kiosk scams and what to do if they are targeted
• Urging policymakers to establish practical safeguards for consumers
• Supporting fraud victims through the AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline and fraud victim support program

AARP Vermont is among more than a dozen states that recently passed legislation regulating cryptocurrency kiosks, which criminals use as payment methods in their scams. Vermont passed its first law regulating cryptocurrency kiosks in 2024, with AARP’s support. In 2025, AARP helped secure refund provisions for victims of crypto kiosk fraud. A full ban on cryptocurrency kiosks has passed the Vermont legislature in the 2026 session. 

WHY THIS MATTERS

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to target unsuspecting consumers. While adults 50-plus are frequently targeted, fraud affects every generation.

AARP Fraud Watch Network is a free resource for all to help you proactively spot scams, get guidance from our fraud specialists if you’ve been targeted and feel more secure knowing that we advocate at the federal, state, and local levels to protect consumers and enforce the law.

Fraud Prevention Month helps ensure that every Vermonter has access to reliable information and trusted resources.

“Fraud prevention is about action,” said Laura McDonough, AARP Vermont Director of Communications.

“When AARP shows up in communities with trusted tools and local events, we’re helping neighbors protect themselves and each other.”

 

TAKE ACTION:

Attend a local event. Join virtually. Share what you learn with friends and family. Protect yourself — and your community.

Join the fight against fraud—from anywhere. Become an AARP Digital Fraud Fighter and help your friends and family spot and avoid scams.

 

MORE RESOURCES

AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline: Get guidance from trained fraud specialists: Call 877-908-3360 Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET.

Subscribe to Watchdog Alerts: Stay on top of the latest scams by subscribing to AARP's free bi-weekly newsletter by email and text. 

AARP Scam-Tracking Map: See scams occurring near you or report one if you’ve been targeted.